Abilene Tourism Advocate
September 28, 2023
Best Small Town to Visit in the U.S. - TravelAwaits (2023)
Exploring the Heart of America: Dickinson County's Heritage Center's 45th Annual Heritage Day Event
As the autumn leaves start to paint the landscape with warm hues of red and gold, there's no better time to immerse yourself in the Heart of America's history and culture. This year, on October 7th, the Dickinson County Heritage Center invites you to step back in time and celebrate the 45th Annual Heritage Day Event in Abilene, Kansas. With a packed schedule of activities, live demonstrations, and a touch of Native American flair, this event promises to be an unforgettable journey into the past.
Two Sisters, Tow Brothers, and One Spectacular Mansion
Passersby frequently comment on the exterior of the Historic Seelye Mansion, but what's behind its doors is even more incredible!

In 1982, Sabetha natives Terry Tietjens and his twin brother Jerry purchased the Mansion from sisters - Helen and Marion Seelye. The brothers agreed to restore the home and allow the sisters to live there for as long as they were able.
Presidential Library vs. Public Library
Have you ever wondered how a Presidential Library differs from a Public Library? Check out this video from the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum!
Abilene, Kansas
Latest News
Upcoming Events
October
7
Heritage Day
The annual Heritage Day Festival features living history with blacksmith and antique agriculture demonstrations, steam engine carousel rides, an antique tractor show, a classic car show, model trains, a vendor fair and much more. Learn more
October
9-13
National Greyhound Association Fall Meet
Visit Abilene, Kansas, for the National Greyhound Association's Fall Meet and see the Greyhounds in action! Learn more
December
1-17
Meredith Wilson's Miracle on 34th Street - The Musical at Great Plains Theatre
This musical version of the beloved Holiday classic follows a wave of love that is spread from the real Kris Kringle melting even the most cynical of hearts. This heartwarming spectacle of a musical is the perfect Holiday treat. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Learn more
December
2 & 3
Cowtown Christmas
Visit Abilene December 2-3, 2023 for the Heritage Homes Association’s Homes for the Holidays Tour, enjoy an Old Fashioned Christmas at the Dickinson County Heritage Center and Old Abilene Town, tour the historic Seelye Mansion and see more than 60 beautifully decorated Christmas Trees, ride the rails with Santa and the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, see the live production of the Miracle on 34th Street at Great Plains Theatre, take an evening cruise and see Griswold-style decorations during the Cowtown Christmas Light Showdown, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see Santa, and remember to shop small all season long at Abilene’s small businesses. 
Community Attractions
Experience Art & Culture

Journey to the Old West

Live the American Story

Explore Ike's Life & Legacy

Have an Adventure


Enjoy Family Fun and Learning

201 NW Second St.
Abilene, Kansas 67410
785-263-2231
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday:
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday : Closed